When Monroe came to Lucky Paws Rescue, he was emaciated, dehydrated, coated in fleas and ticks, with heavily matted fur. His feces were bloody, his nails overgrown and curled, and one eye badly infected. He had already been turned away from two veterinarians, one of whom had recommended he be euthanized.

Now, however, he's begun the first steps in a long road to recovery. Michelle Stearns, President of Lucky Paws Rescue, told the Free Press that "We are assuming he is going to recover well. There is every indication to say so."

Monroe before his treatment on July 16, 2018.(Photo11: Lucky Paws Rescue)

Monroe was brought to the rescue by a volunteer and then rushed to Woodhaven Animal Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment for a variety of conditions. He is technically under the care of Monroe County, but Lucky Paws has been put temporarily in charge of him.

In order to deal with the ticks and his matted fur, Monroe was fully shaven. Veterinarians at the hospital want to strengthen and stabilize him before they conduct an operation to remove the infected eye.

"He’s eating, gaining some strength," Stearns said.

Lucky Paws posted about Monroe on Facebook on Monday and within 24 hours received an outpouring of support. The post was shared and almost as many comments expressed hope for a speedy recovery.

After he recovers, he'll go into foster care. "We want him to feel like a pet, maybe again, maybe for the first time," Stearns said. Lucky Paws will ensure that whatever family he ends up with gives him the love he deserves.